What is HTTP 202 Status Code

As a developer, you’ve likely encountered various HTTP status codes while working with web applications and APIs. These codes provide crucial insights into how a server responds to client requests. While common ones like 200 (OK) or 404 (Not Found) are well understood, HTTP 202 (Accepted) is often overlooked but plays a key role in asynchronous processing.

So, what does HTTP 202 really mean? Unlike a 200 OK response, which confirms that a request has been processed successfully, a 202 response simply acknowledges that the request has been received — but the actual processing happens later. This is especially useful when handling long-running tasks, background processing, or third-party API calls.

In this article, we’ll break down:

• What HTTP 202 means
• How it differs from HTTP 200 and 201
• When to use it (and when not to!)
• Common pitfalls developers face

Let’s get started.

What is HTTP 202 Status Code? 

The HTTP 202 status code falls under the 2xx category, which means the server has successfully received the request. However, unlike HTTP 200 (OK), which confirms that the request was completed, HTTP 202 only acknowledges that the request has been accepted. The actual processing happens later, and the final result isn’t immediately available.

What is the Use of the 202 Status Code? 

The HTTP 202 status code’s main function is to facilitate asynchronous processing. It is often used when the server requires more time to process the request because of laborious processes, reliance on external systems, or other circumstances that preclude quick fulfillment.

When a client sends a request, the server confirms it on its reception and informs the client that processing will proceed in the background by providing a 202 response code. As a result, the client may continue with other activities or check the progress of the request on a regular basis without having to wait for a prompt reply. 

For example, in e-commerce platforms, when a bulk order is placed, the system may need time to validate inventory, apply discounts, and process payments. Instead of making users wait, the server can respond with HTTP 202, confirming that the request has been received and is being processed.

To get a better idea of how we can use this HTTP status code in real-world situations, let’s look more closely at some examples and code references.

API Endpoint: File Upload and Processing

Consider an API endpoint designed for uploading and processing large files. When a client sends a file upload request, the server begins processing it but expects it to take some time to complete. Instead of making the client wait, the server responds with an HTTP 202 status code, confirming that the request has been received and will be processed in the background.

This allows the client to continue other tasks and check back later for the final status.

Example

HTTP/1.1 202 Accepted
Content-Type: application/json
Location: /api/files/status/123456
{
"message": "File processing initiated",
"fileId": "123456"
}

In this illustration, the server replies with a response code of 202 and adds the “Location” header, which gives the client the URL where they may verify the progress of the request. For the client’s benefit in monitoring the status of the request, the response body may additionally include extra data, such as a special identifier (“fileId”).

Long-Running Task Execution

The HTTP 202 status code is useful for handling long-running processes that take time to complete. For example, in an API designed for task execution, users might submit complex or time-consuming tasks. Instead of making the client wait for the process to finish, the server responds with a 202 status code, confirming that the request has been accepted.

It may also provide a way for the client to check the progress or retrieve the results later.

Example

HTTP/1.1 202 Accepted
Content-Type: application/json
Retry-After: 60
{
"message": "Task accepted and in progress",
"taskId": "abc123"
}

In this instance, the client should retry the request after 60 seconds according to the “Retry-After” header included in the server’s 202 status code response. An individual ID (“taskId”) is sent to the client in the response body so they may follow the task’s development and receive the results when they’re available.

When Should You Use Http 202 Instead of Http 200 Status Code?

A common question developers ask is, “Why not just return HTTP 200 (OK) instead?” The key difference is that HTTP 200 means the request was successfully completed, while HTTP 202 means the request was received and will be processed later.

Use HTTP 202 when:

• The request triggers a long-running background process (e.g., video rendering, data migration).
• The response depends on external services (e.g., sending an email, integrating with third-party APIs).
• The client doesn’t need an immediate response, but still wants confirmation.

On the other hand, use HTTP 200 when:

• The request is processed instantly, and the client should receive the final result.
• There’s no need for background execution.

Common Mistakes When Using Http 202 Status

Despite its benefits, developers often misuse HTTP 202, leading to unexpected behavior. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:

Mistake	Fix
Not providing a way to track request progress	Always include a Location header or a tracking endpoint where clients can check status updates.
Using HTTP 202 when the request doesn’t require async processing	If the server can complete the task immediately, return HTTP 200 or HTTP 201 instead.
Not handling retries properly	Some clients may resend requests if they don’t get a final response. Ensure your system prevents duplicate processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HTTP 202 cacheable?

No, HTTP 202 responses are not cacheable because they indicate a request is still being processed.

How does HTTP 202 work with webhooks?

If an API sends a webhook event but processing takes time (e.g., payment verification), HTTP 202 can be used to acknowledge receipt while processing continues in the background.

What’s the difference between HTTP 202 and HTTP 201?

• HTTP 201 (Created): The request successfully created a resource (e.g., a new user account).
• HTTP 202 (Accepted): The request is being processed but hasn’t finished yet.

Also Read: What is HTTP 201 Status Code?

Takeaway!

In order to support asynchronous processing in web applications and APIs, the HTTP 202 status code is essential. It enables clients to carry out other activities or check the progress of their requests on a regular basis by stating that the request has been accepted and will be executed in the background. Situations requiring time-consuming processes or dependencies make the use of the 202 status code particularly advantageous.